Hello, fellow pet parents! Let’s dive into the wonderful world of pet-safe plants. Yes, you read that right – there are plants that not only look beautiful in your home, but are also safe for your furry friends to be around.
Why does it matter if a plant is pet-safe or not?
Well, for starters, some plants can be toxic to pets if ingested. And let's face it, our furry friends have a knack for getting into things they shouldn't. By choosing pet-safe plants, we can make sure our pets are safe and healthy, while also creating a sustainable and eco-friendly environment in our homes.
Which plants are safe for pets?
Spider plants are safe for pets and have air-purifying qualities, making them a great addition to any pet-friendly home. Boston ferns add greenery and humidity to spaces while being non-toxic to cats and dogs. Palms, such as Areca palms and Parlor palms, offer a tropical vibe to home décor without posing significant risks to pets.
For example, snake plant is toxic to dogs and cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling if ingested. As another example, pothos can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if eaten by pets.
When it comes to cats, certain houseplants can be toxic and cause anything from minor irritation to severe illness or even death. The Spruce has compiled a list of plants that are toxic to cats, including the popular lilies, pothos, and snake plants. Similarly, Rover has outlined poisonous houseplants for dogs, such as the popular but potentially lethal sago palm.
But wait, there's more! Pet-safe plants aren't just limited to houseplants. You can also incorporate them into your outdoor garden and landscaping. Some pet-safe options for the garden include marigolds, sunflowers, and petunias. These colorful flowers not only add beauty to your outdoor space, but also attract beneficial insects and pollinators.
And let's not forget about the benefits for us humans too! Plants have been proven to improve air quality, reduce stress, and boost our mood. According to Maryville University, plants at home during the COVID-19 lockdown were associated with increased positive emotions. On the other hand, people who lived in smaller homes with little to no plants and inadequate natural light reported experiencing negative emotions more frequently. By filling our homes and gardens with pet-safe plants, we can create a healthier and happier environment for both ourselves and our furry friends. We love Uppwell’s Indoor Plant Stand to keep our plants elevated from the ground!
How can you understand that a plant is not safe for your pet?
If your pet starts showing symptoms such as low energy, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the stool, twitching, seizures, or difficulty breathing after being exposed to a plant, it may be toxic. Other signs of plant toxicity include drinking or peeing more than usual, pale gums, collapse, drooling, and decreased appetite. Some plants may also cause skin or mouth irritations, such as rashes, redness, ulcers, or swelling on the lips, tongue, or gums.
What should you do in case of toxicity?
In case your pet shows symptoms of toxicity after being exposed to a poisonous or toxic plant, it's important to take immediate action. Remove your pet from the area where they were exposed to the plant and remove any plant material carefully. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center for advice and follow their instructions. Keep your pet comfortable and monitor their symptoms closely. If your pet is experiencing severe symptoms, such as seizures or difficulty breathing, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. If you know which plant your pet has been exposed to, bring a sample of the plant with you to the veterinarian to help with identification and treatment.
Choosing pet-safe plants is a simple and effective way to create a sustainable and eco-friendly home for both you and your pets. With so many options available, it's easy to find the perfect plants to fit your style and needs.
